It seems to have become unfashionable to show appreciation, especially in the workplace.
It’s a two-way street. Leaders must show appreciation to their staff, and workers must avoid operating with a sense of entitlement.
I believe in the power of appreciation and the impact of two simple little words – thank you.
Be Better
There is a school of thought that no one deserves a pat on the back for simply doing what is expected.
But where is the harm in letting someone know you appreciate them fulfilling their role? It will make them feel valued and, potentially, encourage them to go further in the future.
A simple ‘thank you’ at the end of a busy week can make anyone, employee or boss, feel valued, energised, and ready to give more.
We can all do more to show those around us – at home and at work – the appreciation they deserve.
A Simple Thank You
As leaders, some of us will have been guilty of complacency regarding the effort our teams put in. Fail to show appreciation when they go the extra mile, and resentment will grow.
As workers, many of us have failed to show our bosses that we appreciate them.
I’m not suggesting staff should bow and scrape in gratitude for having a job. But when a leader goes further than they have to – giving extra support, enabling personal development, being flexible to individual needs, or even just arranging an office party – is it so hard to say, ‘thank you’?
Two little words that can make a world of difference. When we feel appreciated, we commit more, and we spread the joy.
Employer or employee, you can influence your workplace’s tone and atmosphere with just these two words.
Entitlement and Appreciation
I have been criticised for writing this before, but it is, sadly, true.
There is a disappointing trend among younger workers, a sense of entitlement.
They ‘expect’ to be given a job. They ‘expect’ to be given pay rises and bonuses for just turning up and doing the minimum. They ‘expect’ treats, like works nights out and cake in the office. They ‘expect’ to be given every opportunity without ever asking or doing their own legwork.
And worse, some have nothing but negativity about any attempt by any leader to make work a place of opportunity and enjoyment.
Perhaps there is some truth in the claim that this entitlement results from immediate social media gratification and the ‘instant fame’ delivered on reality TV shows. Some of the most famous, and wealthiest, young people in the public eye have achieved their place with minimal work and, sometimes, thanks to genuinely offensive personalities.
We call them ‘influencers’, so why should we be surprised when their ugly attitudes influence other young people?
Personally, it saddens me when a talented, bright young worker falls into this trap. I think of the lost opportunities and how much I have valued that sense of achievement when I have worked for and achieved a goal. It’s a sensation many are destined never to experience if they remain ‘entitled’.
My message to all, young and old, in every workplace is simple. Don’t behave with a sense of entitlement. Show your appreciation with a simple ‘thank you’.
Appreciation Matters
Many of us in business are experiencing tough times right now. There is a lot of economic negativity and uncertainty, which is tangible in the workplace.
Now, perhaps more than ever, is a time to pull together and work to create positivity within our teams and our firms.
A simple starting point is to show some appreciation. Show people you notice their efforts and that you are grateful.
Let’s hear those two little words just a little bit more often.
And ‘thank you’ for reading!
